Adsorption of pesticides and personal care products on pristine and weathered microplastics in the marine environment. Comparison between bio-based and conventional plastics

Sorption and dissipation of current-use pesticides and personal-care products on high-density polyethylene microplastics in seawater

Sorption kinetics and the desorption of three current-use pesticides (CUPs: methyl-chlorpyrifos - m-CPF -, pendimethalin and propyzamide) and three personal-care products (PCPs: triclosan - TCS-, tonalide and galaxolide) on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in seawater were characterised in this study. Sorption kinetic equilibrium and mass balance were determined for all contaminants, evidencing simultaneous dissipation processes (degradation, volatilization, etc.) after 72 h, particularly for propyzamide, pendimethalin, galaxolide and tonalide. However, they were lower than 24 % for TCS and m-CPF, getting the steady-state for all considered analytes in 24 h. The concentration of contaminants sorbed on HDPE increased with the hydrophobicity from 13.9 ng g-1 to 35.1 ng g-1 for m-CPF and TCS, respectively. No clear effect of temperature was observed for m-CPF sorption, and apparently the sorption of TCS was higher at 15 °C than at 25 °C, but it can be affected by the higher dissipation at 25 °C for this compound. This study confirmed the desorption of TCS and m-CPF from HDPE, being higher than 30 % in all cases during the first 24 h, especially for the highest tested concentrations (200 ng L-1). Sorption of TCS and m-CPF were favoured (4-7 times) on HDPE with the highest specific surface (estimated in an increase of 49-fold times).

Potential impact of the 2023 Lahaina wildfire on the marine environment: Modeling the transport of ash-laden benzo[a]pyrene and pentachlorophenol

The Lahaina urban/wildland fire event is considered the deadliest wildfire in the past century of U.S. history. This fire resulted in over 2200 building structures destroyed or damaged, approximately 4000 automobiles were incinerated and between 450 and 878 ha of grassland burned in areas adjoining the town of Lahaina, Maui County, State of Hawaii, U.S.A. One of the most abundant contaminants of both wildland and urban fires is the incomplete combustion product, benzo[a]pyrene. Pentachlorophenol from burned and unburned utility poles/residential burn sites enter into navigable waters, thus posing a serious risk to the water quality of coastal waters. The Risk Quotient Plumes for benzo[a]pyrene and pentachlorophenol, mobilized from Lahaina into coastal waters were calculated based on a hydrodynamic analysis and an integrated ecological risk assessment. This plume was simulated using rainfall events in November 2022 as a proxy for the first major rainfall event expected in Lahaina in 2024. The models indicated that the estimated levels of benzo[a]pyrene and pentachlorophenol posed a risk to near shore habitants within 2 km of Lahaina. The levels of pentachlorophenol were more widespread than benzo[a]pyrene and were predicted to pose a hazard to marine life as far away as Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District and 'Āhihi-Kīna'u Natural Area Reserve. Fisheries species captured near these areas should be tested for consumption safety.

Comparing environmental fate and ecotoxicity of conventional and biodegradable plastics: A critical review

Plastic pollution is a consequential problem worldwide, prompting the widespread use of biodegradable plastics (BPs). However, not all BPs are completely degradable under natural conditions, but instead produce biodegradable microplastics (BMPs), release chemical additives, and absorb micropollutants, thus causing toxicity to living organisms in similar manners to conventional plastics (CPs). The new problems caused by biodegradable plastics cannot be ignored and requires a thorough comparison of the differences between conventional and biodegradable plastics and microplastics. This review comprehensively compares their environmental fates, such as biodegradation and micropollutant sorption, and ecotoxicity in soil and water environments. The results showed that it is difficult to determine the natural conditions required for the complete biodegradation of BPs. Some chemical additives in BPs differ from those in CPs and may pose new threats to ecosystems. Because of functional group differences, most BMPs had higher micropollutant sorption capacities than conventional microplastics (CMPs). The ecotoxicity comparison showed that BMPs had similar or even greater adverse effects than CMPs. This review highlights several knowledge gaps in this new field and suggests directions for future studies.

Weathering increases the acute toxicity of plastic pellets leachates to sea-urchin larvae-a case study with environmental samples

Microplastics, particles under 5 mm, pervade aquatic environments, notably in Tarragona's coastal region (NE Iberian Peninsula), hosting a major plastic production complex. To investigate weathering and yellowness impact on plastic pellets toxicity, sea-urchin embryo tests were conducted with pellets from three locations-near the source and at increasing distances. Strikingly, distant samples showed toxicity to invertebrate early stages, contrasting with innocuous results near the production site. Follow-up experiments highlighted the significance of weathering and yellowing in elevated pellet toxicity, with more weathered and colored pellets exhibiting toxicity. This research underscores the overlooked realm of plastic leachate impact on marine organisms while proposes that prolonged exposure of plastic pellets in the environment may lead to toxicity. Despite shedding light on potential chemical sorption as a toxicity source, further investigations are imperative to comprehend weathering, yellowing, and chemical accumulation in plastic particles.

Bioaccumulation of trace metals in the plastisphere: Awareness of environmental risk from a European perspective

The term "Plastisphere" refers to the biofilm layer naturally formed by microorganisms attaching to plastic surfaces. This layer possesses the capability to adsorb persistent organic and inorganic pollutants, particularly trace metals, which are the focus of this research study. Immersion experiments were concurrently conducted in five locations spanning four European countries (France, Ireland, Spain, and Italy) utilising eight distinct polymers. These immersions, repeated every three months over a one-year period, aimed to evaluate the baseline bioaccumulation of 12 trace metals. The study underscores the intricate nature of metal bioaccumulation, influenced by both micro-scale factors (such as polymer composition) and macro-scale factors (including geographical site and seasonal variations). Villefranche Bay in France exhibited the lowest metals bioaccumulation, whereas Naples in Italy emerged as the site where bioaccumulation was often the highest for the considered metals. Environmental risk assessment was also conducted in the study. The lightweight nature of certain plastics allows them to be transported across significant distances in the ocean. Consequently, evaluating trace metal concentrations in the plastisphere is imperative for assessing potential environmental repercussions that plastics, along with their associated biota, may exert even in locations distant from their point of emission.

Impact of pesticides on marine coral reef foraminifera

Our laboratory study looked into how pesticides affect the foraminifera species Heterostegina depressa and their obligatory algal endosymbionts. We incubated the foraminifera separately with different types of pesticides at varying concentrations (1 %, 0.01 % and 0.0001 %); we included the insecticide Confidor© (active substance: imidacloprid), the fungicide Pronto©Plus (tebuconazole), and the herbicide Roundup© (glyphosate). Our evaluation focused on the symbiont's photosynthetically active area (PA), and the uptake of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and nitrogen (nitrate) to determine the vitality of the foraminifera. Our findings showed that even the lowest doses of the fungicide and herbicide caused irreparable damage to the foraminifera and their symbionts. While the insecticide only deactivated the symbionts (PA = 0) at the highest concentration (1 %), the fungicide, and herbicide caused complete deactivation even at the lowest levels provided (0.0001 %). The fungicide had the strongest toxic effect on the foraminiferal host regarding reduced isotope uptake. In conclusion, all pesticides had a negative impact on the holosymbiont, with the host showing varying degrees of sensitivity towards different types of pesticides.

Assessing the ecological impact of pesticides/herbicides on algal communities: A comprehensive review

The escalating use of pesticides in agriculture for enhanced crop productivity threatens aquatic ecosystems, jeopardizing environmental integrity and human well-being. Pesticides infiltrate water bodies through runoff, chemical spills, and leachate, adversely affecting algae, vital primary producers in marine ecosystems. The repercussions cascade through higher trophic levels, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between pesticides, algae, and the broader ecosystem. Algae, susceptible to pesticides via spillage, runoff, and drift, experience disruptions in community structure and function, with certain species metabolizing and bioaccumulating these contaminants. The toxicological mechanisms vary based on the specific pesticide and algal species involved, particularly evident in herbicides' interference with photosynthetic activity in algae. Despite advancements, gaps persist in comprehending the precise toxic effects and mechanisms affecting algae and non-target species. This review consolidates information on the exposure and toxicity of diverse pesticides and herbicides to aquatic algae, elucidating underlying mechanisms. An emphasis is placed on the complex interactions between pesticides/herbicides, nutrient content, and their toxic effects on algae and microbial species. The variability in the harmful impact of a single pesticide across different algae species underscores the necessity for further research. A holistic approach considering these interactions is imperative to enhance predictions of pesticide effects in marine ecosystems. Continued research in this realm is crucial for a nuanced understanding of the repercussions of pesticides and herbicides on aquatic ecosystems, mainly algae.

Pollution and endometriosis: A deep dive into the environmental impacts on women's health

BACKGROUND

The interaction between pollution and endometriosis is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The impact of pollution, particularly air and water pollution, or occupational hazards, on hormonal disruption and the initiation of endometriosis remains a major issue.

OBJECTIVES

This narrative review aims to delve into the intricate connection between pollution and endometriosis, shedding light on how environmental factors contribute to the onset and severity of this disease and, thus, the possible public health policy implications.

DISCUSSION

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in pollutants dysregulate the hormonal balance, contributing to the progression of this major gynaecological disorder. Air pollution, specifically PM2.5 and PAHs, has been associated with an increased risk of endometriosis by enhancing chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances. Chemical contaminants in water and work exposures, including heavy metals, dioxins, and PCBs, disrupt the hormonal regulation and potentially contribute to endometriosis. Mitigating the environmental impact of pollution is required to safeguard women's reproductive health. This requires a comprehensive approach involving stringent environmental regulations, sustainable practices, responsible waste management, research and innovation, public awareness, and collaboration among stakeholders.

CONCLUSION

Public health policies have a major role in addressing the interaction between pollution and endometriosis in a long-term commitment.

Mitigating abortion risk of synthetic musk-contained body wash in pregnant women: Risk assessment and mechanism analysis

Synthetic musks (SMs), the widely used odor component in personal care products have attracted attention due to their environmental impacts, especially the abortion risks. Given that women comprise a significant consumer demographic for personal care products, it is imperative to promptly initiate research on avoidance strategies for pregnant women concerning their exposure to synthetic chemicals (SMs). This study tried to establish novel theoretical approaches to eliminate the abortion risks of SM-contained body wash by designing the SM-contained proportioning scheme and analyzing the abortion risk mechanisms. The binding energy of SMs to estrogen-progesterone protein complex was used as an indicator of the abortion risk. A total of 324 SM-contained body wash proportioning schemes were designed using full factorial design and No. 218 was found as the most effective formula for body wash proportioning with the binding energy value of 68.6 kJ/mol. Results showed the abortion risk could be effectively alleviated (reduced 0.6%-163.4%) by regulating the proportioning scheme of SM-contained body wash. In addition, the mechanism analysis of SM-contained proportioning scheme proportioning scheme found that xanthan gum and disodium EDTA played essential roles in reducing the abortion risk in pregnant women after exposure. The selection of proper body wash components for reducing the abortion risk of SMs on pregnant women was first proposed. It sheds lights on the potential risks of people's daily life and proposes risk-eliminating strategies.

Adsorption of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Microcystins by Virgin and Weathered Microplastics in Freshwater Matrices

Microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) both represent persistent groups of environmental contaminants that have been associated with human health risks. Microcystin toxins are produced and stored in the cells of cyanobacteria and may be released into sources of drinking water. Recent concerns have emerged regarding the ability of microplastics to adsorb a range of organic contaminants, including PFAS and microcystins. This study examined the adsorption of two long-chain and two short-chain PFAS, as well as two common microcystins, by both virgin and weathered microplastics in freshwater. Natural weathering of microplastic surfaces may decrease adsorption by introducing hydrophilic oxygen-containing functional groups. Up to 50% adsorption of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) was observed for virgin PVC compared to 38% for weathered PVC. In contrast, adsorption capacities for microcystins by virgin LDPE were approximately 5.0 µg/g whereas no adsorption was observed following weathering. These results suggest that adsorption is driven by specific polymer types and dominated by hydrophobic interactions. This is the first known study to quantify PFAS and microcystins adsorption when considering environmentally relevant concentrations as well as weathered microplastics.

Laboratory Studies about Microplastic Aging and Its Effects on the Adsorption of Chlorpyrifos

The constant change in microplastics (MP) due to exposure to environmental conditions leads to physical and chemical changes that enhance their ability to transport other pollutants, increasing the concern about their widespread presence in the environment. This work aimed to simulate the aging process of six MP (polyamide 6, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, low-density polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate, polypropylene) in freshwater and seawater ecosystems at laboratory scale and evaluate its effects through optical microscope observation, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR), Raman spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Through a combined experimental study of aged MP, the degradation by UV interaction was evidenced by the appearance of new infrared bands in the FTIR spectra assigned to ketones and hydroxyl groups. While Raman analysis and microscope images reveal the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and roughness in the MP surfaces. Variations in the temperature of the maximum weight loss of the MP were observed in the TGA analysis. The adsorption of chlorpyrifos (CPF), a common pesticide widely used in agriculture, by the pristine and aged MP was also studied. The highest affinity for CPF was observed for pristine LDPE and the lowest for PP. The batch adsorption studies revealed an increase in adsorption capacity as a consequence of the aging process for both MP. These results proved that the weathering effects caused changes in the behavior of MP, namely in the interaction with other pollutants.

Molecular level insight into the different interaction intensity between microplastics and aromatic hydrocarbon in pure water and seawater

The interaction of MPs and aromatic hydrocarbons in seawater and pure water was examined using experimental measurements, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations in light of the potential health risks posed by microplastic (MPs)-associated aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants. Isothermal studies and MD simulations suggested that MPs have a stronger affinity for aromatic hydrocarbons in seawater. To uncover the mechanism, MPs' surface characteristics and their intermolecular interactions with aromatic hydrocarbons were examined. According to the research, MPs in seawater have less compact structure, bigger pores, and a higher specific surface area, all of which contribute to more sorption sites. Analysis of the intermolecular interaction indicated that MPs have a greater ability for molecular interactions in seawater and the interaction energy between MPs and aromatic hydrocarbons in seawater is higher. Additionally, seawater cations may act as bridges, which also accelerate sorption in seawater. In summary, this study provides a molecular-level understanding of MPs-aromatic hydrocarbons interaction and demonstrates that the interaction is stronger in seawater.

Novel method in emerging environmental contaminants detection: Fiber optic sensors based on microfluidic chips

Recently, human industrial practices and certain activities have caused the widespread spread of emerging contaminants throughout the environmental matrix, even in trace amounts, which constitute a serious threat to human health and environmental ecology, and have therefore attracted the attention of research scholars. Different traditional techniques are used to monitor water pollutants, However, they still have some disadvantages such as high costs, ecological problems and treatment times, and require technicians and researchers to operate them effectively. There is therefore an urgent need to develop simple, inexpensive and highly sensitive methods to sense and detect these toxic environmental contaminants. Optical fiber microfluidic coupled sensors offer different advantages over other detection technologies, allowing manipulation of light through controlled microfluidics, precise detection results and good stability, and have therefore become a logical device for screening and identifying environmental contaminants. This paper reviews the application of fiber optic microfluidic sensors in emerging environmental contaminant detection, focusing on the characteristics of different emerging contaminant types, different types of fiber optic microfluidic sensors, methodological principles of detection, and specific emerging contaminant detection applications. The optical detection methods in fiber optic microfluidic chips and their respective advantages and disadvantages are analyzed in the discussion. The applications of fiber optic biochemical sensors in microfluidic chips, especially for the detection of emerging contaminants in the aqueous environment, such as personal care products, endocrine disruptors, and perfluorinated compounds, are reviewed. Finally, the prospects of fiber optic microfluidic coupled sensors in environmental detection and related fields are foreseen.